China's Xinjiang Railway Boosts Cotton Textile Industry with Dedicated Train Services

In northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, railway authorities have increased transport capacity and launched dedicated cotton yarn train services, reducing transport time by more than half from 14 days to 6 days. Over 200 fixed train services have been provided, covering more than 20 railway destinations in five provincial regions. Local railway personnel have also developed customized logistics plans for scattered textile enterprises, cutting logistics costs and enhancing the market competitiveness of Xinjiang's cotton textile products.

In northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, significant advancements in infrastructure and logistics are driving economic growth and development. The region's railway authorities have implemented a series of strategic initiatives aimed at improving transport efficiency and reducing costs. These efforts have resulted in a substantial reduction in transport times for cotton yarn, a key product for Xinjiang's textile industry.

The railway authorities have increased transport capacity and launched dedicated cotton yarn train services, reducing transport time from 14 days to just 6 days. This initiative has been accompanied by the establishment of over 200 fixed train services, covering more than 20 railway destinations in five provincial regions. Additionally, local railway personnel have developed customized logistics plans for scattered textile enterprises, further enhancing the market competitiveness of Xinjiang's cotton textile products [1].

These improvements in logistics and infrastructure are part of a broader strategy to develop the region's economy. The construction of a 750-kilovolt power transmission loop around the Tarim Basin, home to the Taklimakan Desert, is a major milestone in this effort. The project, completed in July 2025, is expected to become fully operational by November 2025. This loop allows electricity from wind, solar, hydro, and thermal sources to be transmitted efficiently, stabilizing the power supply for industries and households across southern Xinjiang [1].

The new power grid complements a growing network of infrastructure around the Taklimakan Desert, including highways, airports, and railway lines. This multidimensional transport system provides strong support for Xinjiang's high-quality development. The region's GDP has seen significant growth, rising from 481.7 billion yuan in 2021 to 612.8 billion yuan in 2024, a 27.2-percent increase. Industrial added value surpassed 152.97 billion yuan in 2024, with over 200 new major industrial enterprises established [1].

The new power grid and improved logistics infrastructure are expected to deliver tangible benefits to the region's residents. In Karanggutag Village, located in the Kunlun Mountains, electricity supply has become more stable since parts of the power loop were activated in April. The number of local shops has grown from four in 2018 to 48, with each equipped with a refrigerator or freezer. Residents are now able to consider larger home appliances and even new energy vehicles [1].

These developments in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region are a testament to China's ongoing efforts to expand development opportunities for residents across the region. The combination of improved infrastructure and logistics is set to further enhance the region's economic prospects and contribute to the country's overall growth.

References:
[1] http://www.huashangnews.cc/static/content/ENG/2025-07-14/1394280004192477599.html